Hukum Bacaan Mim Sukun dalam Al-Quran: Kajian Komparatif Mazhab Qiraah

The recitation of the Holy Quran is a fundamental pillar of Islam, and understanding the nuances of its pronunciation is crucial for accurate and meaningful reading. One such nuance is the treatment of the letter "Mim Sukun," which poses a unique challenge for reciters. This letter, when followed by a "Sukun" (a silent diacritical mark), presents a complex scenario with varying interpretations across different schools of Quranic recitation (Qiraah). This article delves into the diverse approaches to reading "Mim Sukun" in the Quran, comparing and contrasting the perspectives of prominent Qiraah schools.

The Significance of "Mim Sukun" in Quranic Recitation

The letter "Mim Sukun" holds significant importance in Quranic recitation. Its pronunciation directly impacts the flow and meaning of the verses. The presence of "Sukun" indicates that the letter is silent, but its influence on the preceding vowel is crucial. The challenge lies in determining the exact pronunciation of the preceding vowel, which varies depending on the Qiraah school.

The Shafi'i School's Approach to "Mim Sukun"

The Shafi'i school of Qiraah, one of the most widely followed schools, adopts a specific approach to "Mim Sukun." They advocate for the pronunciation of the preceding vowel with a slight prolongation, known as "Idgham." This means that the vowel is pronounced with a slightly extended sound, creating a subtle emphasis. For instance, in the verse "وَمَا أَنْتَ بِمُصْلِحٍ لِمَنْ هُوَ أَشْرَطُ" (Surah Al-Qalam, 68:41), the "Mim Sukun" in "مُصْلِحٍ" would be pronounced with a prolonged "i" sound.

The Hanafi School's Perspective on "Mim Sukun"

The Hanafi school, another prominent school of Qiraah, offers a different perspective on "Mim Sukun." They emphasize the pronunciation of the preceding vowel with a distinct separation, known as "Iqlab." This means that the vowel is pronounced with a clear and separate sound, without any prolongation. In the same verse mentioned above, the "Mim Sukun" in "مُصْلِحٍ" would be pronounced with a distinct "i" sound, without any extension.

The Maliki School's Interpretation of "Mim Sukun"

The Maliki school, known for its emphasis on tradition and consensus, adopts a more nuanced approach to "Mim Sukun." They acknowledge the existence of both "Idgham" and "Iqlab" but prioritize the former in most cases. They believe that "Idgham" is the preferred pronunciation, except in specific instances where "Iqlab" is deemed more appropriate. This approach reflects their commitment to both tradition and flexibility in interpreting Quranic recitation.

The Hanbali School's Stance on "Mim Sukun"

The Hanbali school, known for its strict adherence to the teachings of Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal, adopts a similar approach to the Shafi'i school. They advocate for the pronunciation of "Mim Sukun" with "Idgham," emphasizing the prolongation of the preceding vowel. This approach aligns with their emphasis on preserving the original pronunciation of the Quran as transmitted by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Conclusion

The recitation of "Mim Sukun" in the Quran presents a complex scenario with diverse interpretations across different Qiraah schools. Each school offers a unique perspective, rooted in their respective methodologies and interpretations of Quranic text and tradition. While the Shafi'i and Hanbali schools favor "Idgham," the Hanafi school emphasizes "Iqlab," and the Maliki school adopts a more nuanced approach, acknowledging both pronunciations. Understanding these different perspectives is crucial for appreciating the richness and diversity of Quranic recitation, allowing for a deeper understanding of the Holy Quran's message.